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6/1/2010 - GP and Community NHS Services working well, but Cumbrians urged to Choose Well

Following the recent icy weather various NHS services across Cumbria have seen an increase in slips, falls and illnesses as a result.

GPs and community NHS services across the county are coping well, but people are being reminded of the importance of seeking the correct help and advice when and where they need it.

Currently Minor Injury Units at most community hospitals are busy with slips, trips and falls other than in areas such as Brampton where these sorts of cases are traditionally dealt with by the local GP practice. 

Community nursing teams are fully operational with support in remote rural areas from Mountain Rescue Teams. 

NHS Cumbria has also provided a temporary 4x wheel drive vehicle to support community nursing teams in Eden in order to reach residents in largely rural areas. More 4x temporary wheel drive vehicles may be hired today depending on demand. 

Community nurses are also making additional checks when visiting older peoples homes, including that the person is safe, has enough provisions and that their rooms are properly heated.

GPs are working together across different practices to make sure services remain fully operational. Family doctors are advising people who have an appointment and cannot travel, to phone their surgery where they will be able to speak to a GP over the phone.

Peter Weaving is a Cumbrian GP, he said: "GPs and other community health professionals are currently working very hard across the county but coping well with the extra demand on health services which the recent snow and cold weather has caused.

"In order to keep things working smoothly I’d ask anyone suffering from a minor injury or ailment to make sure they go to the right place to seek NHS care or advice. It’s very important that people only access emergency help or treatment if it is indeed an emergency, this will mean that the sickest people get the most urgent treatment first.

"If you don’t need to venture out then please don’t, but if you do go out please be careful and keep an eye on family friends and neighbours to check that they are safe and well and have the provisions they need."

Various NHS services are available across the county and its vital that people choose the right one for their ailment including:

Self-Care - A well-stocked medicine cabinet can help with most minor infections and cuts such as diarrhoea, colds, flu and headaches, but seek advice if worried

NHS Direct - on 0845 46 47 or www.nhs.ukthis external link will open in a new window - Offers expert help and advice over the phone

Community Pharmacy - Has fully trained health professionals who’ll provide quality healthcare advice

GP Surgery - If you have an illness or injury that won’t go away

NHS Walk-In Services - Both Minor Injury Units or Primary Care Assessment Services can treat minor injuries and illnesses 

A&E and 999 - Are for life threatening conditions and emergencies only

For a full list of the nearest services to you, visit www.cumbria.nhs.uk/YourHealth/ChooseWell/Home.aspxthis external link will open in a new window

ENDS

Media enquiries please contact Ann Marie Palmer, communications officer, NHS Cumbria on 01768 245435/367